HTR Product Rating

Mitsubishi's 2010 LCD line includes three series: the top-shelf Diamond 265 Series, the 164 Series and the 154 Series. As the entry-level series in the group, the 154 Series lacks some of the advanced options found in the step-up lines, but it offers the core features we like to see. The 154 Series currently includes just one model: the 55-inch LT-55154. We have not performed a hands-on review of the LT-55154, but here is an overview of the TV's features. This 1080p LCD uses edge LED lighting, in which LEDs are positioned around the edges of the screen. It has a relatively slim form, measuring about 2.9 inches at its deepest point. The LT-55154 also features Mitsubishi's True120Hz technology to reduce motion blur and film judder, as well as Immersive Sound Technology--which is Mitsubishi's name for the integrated sound projector that uses 12 tiny speakers to project sound beams around the room to simulate a surround sound experience. You can add the LT-55154 to a home network via wired Ethernet or an optional USB adapter (this model lacks the built-in WiFi available in the 164 and 265 Series), and the TV includes Mitsubishi's StreamTV Internet platform, with access to VUDU, Pandora, Flickr, Picasa, Facebook, Twitter and more. This model lacks the built-in Bluetooth audio streaming found in the step-up lines, which allows you to wirelessly stream audio from devices like the iPhone and Blackberry. The LT-55154 has EnergyStar 4.0 certification.

The input panel includes four HDMI, two component video, and one RF input to access the internal ATSC and ClearQAM tuners (there is no dedicated PC input). The HDMI inputs accept 1080p/60 and 1080p/24 signals, and three are located on the side panel for easy access. Also on the side panel are dual USB ports: One supports the addition of a WiFi adapter, while the other supports photo and music playback. The Ethernet port is located on the rear panel. The TV features a subwoofer output to mate an outboard subwoofer with the sound projector, as well as a center-channel input to use the TV's speaker system as the center channel in a true surround system. The LT-55154 lacks an RS-232 or IR port for integration into an advanced control system.

The LT-55154's picture adjustments are quite limited. It lacks options available in the higher-end 164 and 265 Series, such as advanced calibration modes, DeepField Imager, EdgeEnhance, and the PerfectColor/PerfecTint color management system. In addition to four preset picture modes, you get standard controls like an adjustable backlight, two color-temperature options, noise reduction, and 120Hz setup. The TV offers multiple aspect-ratio options, including a native mode to view 1080i/1080p signals with no overscan.

The SoundPro menu includes manual and custom setup options for the integrated sound projector (this model lacks the automatic setup function, with a supplied microphone, that you get with the 265 Series). The manual setup menu allows you to set the TV location and general room dimensions, while the custom menu allows you to adjust the beam angles and channel levels. Other audio setup options include four preset sound modes (stereo, surround, music and night), as well as bass, treble and balance controls and the ability to adjust the level of a connected subwoofer. The generic Level Sound function is designed to minimize volume discrepancies; the TV lacks advanced audio-leveling technology from Dolby or SRS.

Read about the high points and the low points of the LT-55154 on Page 2.